Urinary tract infection
An infection of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra, is known as a urinary tract infection, or UTI.
The likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection is higher in women. According to some experts, the lifetime risk of contracting one is as high as 1 in 2, with many women experiencing recurrent infections for extended periods of time. A UTI affects about 1 in 10 males at some point in their lives.
Symptoms of UTI
The symptoms of UTI depend on which part of the urinary tract is infected.
Symptoms of Lower Tract UTI
Lower tract UTI includes urethra and bladder. Symptoms of Lower Tract UTI include:
- Burning while urinating
- Frequent urination
- Blood in the urine
- Cloudy urine
- Pelvic pain
Symptoms of upper Tract UTI
Upper track UTI cause kidney infection. If bacteria are affecting the kidney, then it can potentially be harming your health.
ymptoms of upper tract infection includes:
- Cold
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Types of UTIS
Your urinary tract can become infected in a number of different locations. Depending on where it is, each variety has a unique name.
Bladder cystitis: You may feel as though you need to urinate frequently or that it hurts to urinate. Additionally, you may experience lower stomach pain and murky or red urine. Pyelonephritis of the kidneys: Symptoms of this condition include fever, chills, nauseousness, vomiting, and discomfort in the upper back or side.
Urethritis: This condition might result in a discharge and burning when you urinate.
Risk of UTI
In general, urinary tract infections are common, and many women experience this infection more than once in their lifetime.
There are some factors that increases the risk of UTI :
Female Anatomy: - The woman's anatomy is smaller than the males. So, it is easier for the bacteria to get into the organs.
Sexual activity: - Being sexually active increases the risk of UTI. Having more than one sexual partner too increases the risk.
Some types of birth control: - Some birth control increases the risk of an infection.
Menopause:- Menopause reduces the estrogen level, which can make you susceptible to infection.
Diagnosis
Visit the doctor if you think you may have a urinary tract infection. To check for germs that cause UTIs, you will provide a urine sample.
An ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to obtain a better look if you frequently get UTIs and our doctor suspects a urinary tract issue. They might also look inside your urethra and bladder using a long, flexible tube known as a cystoscope.
Complications of UTI
When the urine infection is immediately treated properly and early, it rarely causes
complications. But if it is not treated, then it causes some serious complication
Prevention
If you're a woman, you're likely aware that urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be really unpleasant and can lead to a lot of pain and discomfort. Here are tips to help prevent UTI :
- Keep your urinary tract clean. Urinate frequently, and avoid using the bathroom near dirty surfaces.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and worsen UTIs.
- Pee immediately after sex
- Take antibiotics as prescribed. If our doctor prescribes antibiotics, take them as directed. Don't try to self-medicate with over-the-counter antibiotics.
- Consult a healthcare professional if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms related to a UTI.
By following these tips, you can keep your urinary tract healthy and free from UTIs.
When do you go to the doctor?
If you are feeling the symptoms of UTI, then contact the doctor immediately.
UTI treatment
UTI treatment depends on what causes the infection.
- Bacteria
- Viral
- Fungal
The doctor will decide to see the result of your test, to know the kind of treatment.
Treatment for bacteria is done with antibiotics. If the infection is caused by a viral infection, the treatment will be a viral drug.
Data related to UTI
Urinary Tract Infection is one of the common infections in India. According to research, about 53.82 percent of people have at least suffered UTI once. Although, women are more prone to it than men.
Why choose cicle ?
We at Cicle can help you with the diagnosis and treatment of UTI. All you have to do is contact our health coach and an appointment with a doctor will be made. To book an appointment with a doctor, click here.